Press release - 24 September 2020 11:31

Council welcomes applications for 'Pop-Up Shops' programme

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is offering people the opportunity to test out whether they would like to go into retail by taking on a pop-up shop in Ballymena, Larne or Carrickfergus.

The ‘Start Up in Retail Programme’ will provide those who are keen with the skills to get started and the opportunity to sell their products.

Through online workshops, those who register their interest will learn about developing their brand, marketing their business, selling in-store and on-line, visual merchandising and environmental health.

In addition they will get up to 12 hours specialist retail focused mentoring to include product development, e-commerce, brand/logo development and managing a retail business.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “The Start Up Retail is an innovative programme by Council to stimulate and support those wishing to set up a retail business providing opportunities to develop products and fully test these.

“The retail sector has faced some very difficult challenges recently and these will be explored through the programme while also providing sound grounding for new entrepreneurs.

“This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who wishes to test out the retail world with their products and discover whether it is something they would like to pursue further.”

If you would like to participate in the programme you can contact officers on E: amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or T: 028 2563 3563

This FREE programme is open to those who would like to start or have recently set up a retail focused business in arts, crafts, artisan food or fashion.

The programme will give participants the opportunity to test trade in Carrickfergus, Ballymena or Larne Pop Up Shop before Christmas.

All applicants must be at least 18 years old and based in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area.

Town centres in Mid and East Antrim are beginning to come alive again and we want everyone to #RediscoverMEA and #ShopLocal, #ShopSafe.

Topics

County council issues

Regions

Antrim

Notes to editors:

For Mid and East Antrim Borough Council media enquiries T: 028 2563 5037 E: communications@midandeastantrim.gov.uk
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Contacts

Press Office

Press contact Communications@midandeastantrim.gov.uk 028 2563 3522

Chris Kilpatrick

Press contact Head of Communications chris.kilpatrick@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Deborah Cummings

Press contact Press Officer deborah.cummings@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Aisling Maguire

Press contact Press Officer aisling.maguire@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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